Why do British ports do well?

Bristol Position on West Coast gave it an advantage over London. Bristol merchants had close ties with African slave traders which meant they gained a lot of business.

Liverpool Merchants could import goods to the Isle of Man and avoid paying taxes on it, so they were more likely to bring their ship to Liverpool. They could therefore store manufactured goods here to take to Africa. Liverpool also had many young men looking for work on slave ships.

London Businesses in London could provide financial support to slave ships so they did not directly benefit the same as Bristol and Liverpool. They could insure ships or lend money to slave traders for their voyage and gain profit this way – Most financial services are based in London which is why London benefits.

Specific Industries Britain sold many goods to Africa and therefore the trade provided work for thousands of manufacturer of cloth, metal and guns. Thousands of jobs were created making ships, sails, ropes etc. The trade provided thousands of sailors with work.